White House DOGE Cuts Package: What’s Next for Senate Approval as Time Runs Out? | CNN Politics

The White House has proposed a spending cuts plan that aims to reshape the federal budget, but it’s facing challenges in the Senate. With a crucial deadline approaching, Senate Republicans must decide how to move forward.

Senator Susan Collins, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, expressed uncertainty about whether the bill can pass by the deadline. She acknowledges that while the House of Representatives has passed a bill to cut $9.4 billion, there will likely be modifications before it reaches the Senate floor.

Collins raised concerns over significant cuts, particularly to vital programs like PEPFAR, which combats AIDS and provides crucial health support for mothers and children. “I can’t understand why we would want to eliminate such essential services,” she commented, highlighting the importance of maintaining these programs for vulnerable populations.

The House bill also proposes cuts to foreign assistance and public broadcasting, which has further complicated support among centrist Republicans. Congress has a limited window—45 days—to act, pressing the Senate to pass the package by July 18.

If changes are made in the Senate, the House will have to reconsider the bill. Collins feels the bill requires amendments to gain broader support. Other senators also echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the bill is likely to be altered.

For the Republican-controlled Congress, failing to pass this bill could reflect poorly on their leadership. Senator John Kennedy emphasized that not moving forward would be embarrassing for both Congress and the White House.

During recent discussions among Republican senators, there were questions about the cuts proposed by the Trump administration. Some Democrats have openly opposed the package, indicating potential partisan conflicts.

Despite the urgency, Senate Majority Leader John Thune believes the bill will advance through committee and be available for a broader vote soon. However, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer warned against rushing into cuts that would undermine bipartisan agreements.

Recent statistics show that public opinion on government spending is quite divided. According to a recent survey, 60% of people support maintaining funding for social programs, while only 30% back significant cuts. This highlights a disconnect between some lawmakers and public sentiment.

In considering long-term impacts, it’s also important to remember historical budget cuts. In the past, similar measures led to detrimental effects on services like education and healthcare. Experts argue that understanding this context is crucial as legislators negotiate spending.

As this debate unfolds, social media trends reveal that many citizens are vocal about their stance on these cuts. Hashtags related to protecting essential services are trending, showing a clear public interest in maintaining these programs.

In summary, the road ahead for this spending cuts plan is fraught with uncertainty. With voices on both sides of the aisle weighing in, the fate of these proposed cuts remains to be seen.



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